1. What are some factors that parents could consider in deciding whether to enrol their pre-schoolers in enrichment classes?

Parents should first identify the child’s interest in a specific area. After which, they should find out if the class has opportunities for progression (beginner to intermediate to advanced level). Most importantly, parents should understand their own objectives for the enrichment class – whether it is to expose the child to new skills, develop their social skills, or pursue a talent.This will determine the parents’ expectations from the class and from their child.

Parents should also consider looking at providers who have a good reputation in the market for conducting quality enrichment classes. They should also find out if the mode of delivery of the classes suit their child's learning style.

2. Is there such a thing as being too young for such classes? (Considering that some courses accept kids from age 2 onwards, with parents accompanying them.)

How much a child benefits from an enrichment class depends on his ability, not age. Some providers do state a specific age group to meet their syllabus requirement, and in some classes, a pre-test is administered to group children for classes based on their abilities.

Some classes are not suitable for younger children as there is a need for a certain level of independence, physical development, and the ability to understand instructions. Certain enrichment classes cater to accompanying adults for younger children, and allow children aged 18-months to 2-years onwards into independent programmes (classes that do not require accompanying adults).

3. Are there any possible downsides to enrolling children at such a early age? What about possible benefits?

A good enrichment class can help young children go beyond their preschool curriculum, and nurture their natural talents, aptitude and interests in specific areas. Enrichment classes expose children to various topics early, as research has shown that brain development is most sensitive in children aged 0-3. They also help children to develop social skills as they learn to work in a group and interact with people from different backgrounds.

Enrichment classes should be looked upon like an extra-curriculum activity – fun-to-do stuff that is not taught to the child in a normal preschool setting. In this way, the child’s interest can be sustained in wanting to learn a new and fun skill. However, if unnecessary pressure is put on the child, they may then be reluctant to learn or to go for class, and this will certainly hinder their learning.

• Let the School Plan take care of your costs of enrichment classes
  The School Plan is a unique 2-in-1 plan comprising an insurance plan and a child's savings account. One of the Plan's most attractive features is the yearly cashbacks you will receive from the 6th anniversary onwards. Use these cashbacks to help pay for your child's enrichment classes. Or target to save towards the matured proceeds as the designated 'enrichment classes fund'.
  
  Find out more about School Plan.